Douglas Shire’s Young Citizen of the Year, Sophie Hamilton, is emerging as a champion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) — a passion that mirrors the message shared nationally by Australian of the Year, astronaut Katherine Bennell‑Pegg.
Sophie told DSC For You & Me she was “really surprised” to receive the honour, but proud to represent her community.
“I got lots of hugs first day back at school, everyone’s very proud,” she said.
A Year 11 student at Mossman State High School, Sophie leads an active life. She’s a junior instructor at One Vision Equestrian Services, an assistant dance teacher and competitive Highland dancer with the SharCeltica Highland Dancers, and an athlete with Douglas Athletics.
But it’s her interest in STEM which could potentially shape her life journey.
“I’ve participated in STEM programs through school, including one where I went to Brisbane and participate in a girl power camp, and one where I got to go all the way to Japan to see how far STEM outreaches,” she said.
During the Brisbane camp, Sophie and 70 other girls received a video message from Katherine Bennell-Pegg — a moment that stuck with her. “They played it for us at our closing ceremony which was pretty amazing,” she said.
She’s also passionate about breaking down stereotypes. “When you think of a scientist, often the first thing to come to mind is a male. Same with engineers and anybody in maths or technologies. We see those prejudices and want to change that.”
Sophie’s favourite STEM subject is science, especially chemistry and zoology. She’s already sharing her enthusiasm with younger students, having visited Port Douglas and Wonga Beach State Schools during National Science Week to run fun science games.
“When I was younger, I remember seeing high school students coming over – there was always one that come over and whatever they did really stood out to me. I wanted to do the same for younger students — through STEM and through my other activities.”
Looking ahead, Sophie has big goals for 2026, including national and state competitions in Highland dancing and a deeper dive into senior science subjects.
“I’m not exactly certain just yet, but I can wait to see where it takes me and I would definitely consider going to university or something in the STEM bracket.”
